Tuesday, February 2, 2010

The Once and Future King (9)

T.H. White. New York: G.P. Putnam’s Sons. 1939.

Why read it?Merlyn teaches King Arthur the art of leadership. Part of his training was in learning to live with the animals and gain their perspective. Finally, he founded the Round Table. Merlyn is a most amazing character. A delightful and imaginative tale of what was to become known as Camelot. And a great deal of wisdom.

Ideas:

“Now, in their love, which was stronger, there were the seeds of hatred and fear and confusion growing at the same time: For love can exist with hatred, each preying on the other, and this is what gives it its greatest fury.” p. 375.

“Arthur was hoping to weather the trouble by refusing to become conscious of it.” p. 379.

“But it is always embarrassing to be loved.” p. 402.

“He disliked Mordred irrationally, as a dog dislikes a cat….” p. 417.

Arthur: “Unfortunately we have tried to establish Right by Might, and you can’t do that.” p. 422.